Can't Nothing Bring Me Down: Chasing Myself in the Race against Time

It has always been an honor to say that I have known Ms. Ida Keeling as a friend and neighbor for at least the past 10 years. She has always been my idol, and my inspiration. However, it wasn't until I read her book, "Can't Nothing Bring Me Down", that I can say I truly know her. Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. In this book she takes you on a riveting, compassionate journey of her life. The races she has won are mere metaphors for all that she has overcome and accomplished in her life. "Can't Nothing Bring Me Down" is a must read. I bought 3 copies for my Granddaughter, Sons and myself, and I plan to buy more copies for my family and friends. Ms. Ida is a remarkable woman and this is an excellent book that is beautifully written.

Very enlightening of the early life of many blacks that had to go through in the early 1900s, her family were immigrants. I love her grit and determination to keep going. A lot packed in this story. Then the love of running at a late age to overcome grief. For grammar police may not like how it is written, but it’s from her dialect and raising.

I highly recommend this book to people over 50, people under 50 who are feeling uninspired, to people who are questioning their faith in these trying times and well, to anyone. It isn’t just about an old lady running. It is an memoir of a black woman living and growing up in New York City from before World War One until now and how she just keeps keeping on despite unbelievable adversity. Besides telling her story in a conversational voice that I swear was in the room with me at times, I believe she wrote a book that is truly of historical significance. #Ilovegoodbooks #readit #getinspired

Loved this book! What a history and what an amazing person! A tour of the experiences of a Black woman through, almost, the entire twentieth century - who, with great courage, resourcefulness, and intelligence, did absolutely the best she could - making her own way, raising her four children, and then, rising from tragedy to become a champion runner. Whoa! My creaky knees and all, Miss Ida is going to have me back out on the track, inspired by her heroic example!

This woman is absolutely incredible. She didn't start running until she was 67 years of age, and has since become a world record holder in multiple age groups. Her sage words of wisdom in regard to life (and how to live it) deserve to be read over and over again. Her book is an easy, enjoyable read, but, between the lines, you can see the extreme hardships she had to endure. She never harped on any negativity, probably because she is such a positive person, who sees the glass as half full, rather than half empty. I am a better person for having read her autobiography, and you will feel the same way after having read it.

I bought this book for a friend because my husband read it and just loved the story because it was so inspirational! My friend absolutely loved the book as well and reiterated what my husband said.

I give it a five star because of the content. I can relate to losing a loved one and not knowing how to get out of my rut at a young age. Walking in the rain in Harlem, NY was my way to escape from the trouble I felt within and enjoy God blessing bestowed upon me. Her story has inspired me to keep pressing on regardless of situations, and circumstances that come on your path in life. Love this book. Thank you for sharing. Great job also to her daughter Cheryl(Shelly) for encouraging her mother and coaching her as well.

I loved this unique opportunity to read a contemporary memoir that delves into over a century of history specific to Harlem in New York City. As a New Yorker, I was fascinated to "visit" the city I know and love as it stood in the 1900's. Ida's family history and culture (I particularly loved the description of foods on the island), work ethic, strength through many unimaginable circumstances, and record-setting as a centenarian, is inspirational. Easy, interesting read, full of rich, New York City ambience.

I admire the woman fot her positive autitude..but .the book itself is just another "cry me a river" because of my hardship in life.....One day people will realise white folk had a damn hard time making ends meet as well ...

So inspirational! I loved reading this. A recommended read for anyone.

Beautiful story of a humble woman who has overcome much! I’m inspired and pushed to live with greater intent after reading her story.

Loved the honesty with which the protagonist writes

It was not well written and whoever was the ghost writer was not particularly complementary of her. It didn't mention much of her running which is what I thought the book would be able